Keuka Lake Winery Tour

Explore the Keuka Lake Winery Tour for a Scenic, Guided Experience

The Keuka Lake Winery Tour offers a beautifully curated, 5 to 6-hour adventure through the Finger Lakes region, starting in Penn Yan. Priced at $256.32 per person, this guided journey reveals the charm of Keuka Lake with visits to four distinct wineries. The tour includes a professional driver who transports guests between vineyards, eliminating the need to worry about navigation or designated driving. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxed, informative day of wine tasting amidst stunning scenery.

The tour is especially popular, often booked around 33 days in advance, and boasts a perfect 5.0 rating from 50 reviews, with 98% recommending it. While the experience features four winery stops, guests also have the option to add lunch at Bully Hill Vineyards, elevating the day into a full gastronomic experience. This tour suits wine lovers who appreciate beautiful landscapes, educational insights, and the convenience of guided transport.

Key Points

• Guided tour with transportation: A professional guide drives between four wineries, making it easy to focus on tasting and sightseeing.
• Scenic Keuka Lake views: The tour offers breathtaking vistas of the Finger Lakes, enhancing the wine tasting experience.
• Visit three Hunt Country vineyards: Including Heron Hill, Hunt Country Vineyards, and Point of the Bluff Vineyards.
• Bully Hill Vineyards tasting and optional lunch: Learn about the legendary winery and enjoy a gourmet meal if choosing the Plus Lunch option.
• Educational experience: The guide explains the region’s unique varietals and winemaking process.
• Flexible options: The tour departs from Penn Yan, with the option for hotel pick-up at select locations.

Starting Point and Duration of the Keuka Lake Tour

The tour departs at 10:30 am from the Hampton Inn Penn Yan at 110 Mace St. The entire experience lasts around 5 to 6 hours, giving ample time at each stop to savor tastings and soak in the scenery. The group size is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. Guests should be aware that the tour requires a minimum of 2 people to operate and that most travelers can participate, although the minimum age is 21 years with valid photo ID.

Visiting Heron Hill Winery: Breathtaking Lake Views and Award-Winning Wines

The first stop is Heron Hill Winery, perched high above Keuka Lake. Here, visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramic views from the Crow’s Nest, a vantage point that offers an impressive backdrop for tasting award-winning wines. The admission includes a guided tasting session lasting about an hour, where guests can learn about the winery’s history and their signature varietals. The scenery and quality of wines often earn high praise from participants.

Hunt Country Vineyards: Artful Wines at the Northernmost Point

Next, the tour visits Hunt Country Vineyards, located at the northern tip of the western fork of Keuka Lake. The vineyard emphasizes artistic winemaking and offers a variety of wines to sample. The hour-long stop provides a chance to enjoy beautiful vineyard views and to learn about the family-owned operation run by Art, Joyce, and Jonathan Hunt. The focus here is on the thoughtful process behind each wine, making it a favorite for those interested in the craftsmanship.

Bully Hill Vineyards: Legendary Winery with a Rich History and Lunch Option

Bully Hill Vineyards stands out as the tour’s most renowned stop. Known for its colorful wines and storied past, this famous winery offers a tasting experience that explores their unique varietals. The learning curve is complemented by the lively atmosphere and legendary status of Bully Hill. Guests on the Plus Lunch tour can enjoy a gourmet meal overlooking the vineyards and the lake, adding a delicious element to the day.

Point of the Bluff Vineyards: Boutique Winemaking and Sustainable Practices

The last stop is Point of the Bluff Vineyards, a boutique winery dedicated to full control over their wine production. The winery produces a diverse range of wines, from old-world styles to modern, canned sippers. The visit includes an hour-long tasting and a chance to appreciate the personalized approach to wine-making in this small-scale operation. The warm hospitality and quality wines make it a memorable conclusion to the tour.

The Convenience of the Guided Transportation and Tour Features

The driver/guide not only ensures safe transit between stops but also provides educational commentary about the region and the wineries. Guests can request hotel pick-up at select hotels, adding extra convenience. The tour includes all wine tastings and an educational overview, making it suitable for those seeking both enjoyment and insight.

It’s important to note that the wineries are subject to change based on availability, and the tour is non-refundable, so planning ahead is essential.

Optional Lunch at Bully Hill Vineyards

For those wanting a fuller experience, the Keuka Lake Winery Plus Lunch option is available. This gourmet lunch at Bully Hill offers a chance to relax and savor local flavors with a view of the vineyards and lake. It’s a popular add-on that enhances the day, especially for visitors who appreciate combining wine tasting with good food.

The Overall Value and Experience

At $256.32 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive, guided exploration of the Keuka Lake wineries. The well-paced itinerary ensures time at each location for tasting and learning. The expert guides receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, which elevates the experience beyond just wine sampling.

Most reviews highlight the stunning scenery, delicious wines, and helpful guides as key strengths. The small group size adds a personal touch, making it easier to ask questions and engage with the guide.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore the Finger Lakes region without the hassle of driving. It suits those who appreciate scenic vistas, educational insights into winemaking, and gourmet food options. Couples, friends, or small groups looking for a relaxed, informative day will find this tour aligns with their expectations.

Final Thoughts on the Keuka Lake Winery Tour

The Keuka Lake Winery Tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and educational journey through one of New York’s most beautiful wine regions. The inclusion of four winery stops, a professional driver, and optional lunch makes it a high-value experience. While some wineries may change, the overall quality of wines, views, and guides consistently earns high ratings.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, stress-free taste of Keuka Lake’s wineries and are ready to enjoy a day filled with delicious wines, stunning scenery, and friendly hosts. It’s a reliable choice for anyone seeking a memorable Finger Lakes wine adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $256.32 per person, including tastings and transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, from departure to return.

What are the start and end locations?
The tour departs from Hampton Inn Penn Yan at 110 Mace St and concludes back at the same location.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is available only if you select the Plus Lunch option at Bully Hill Vineyards.

What wineries are visited?
Stops include Heron Hill Winery, Hunt Country Vineyards, Bully Hill Vineyards, and Point of the Bluff Vineyards.

Do I need to be of a certain age?
Yes, participants must be at least 21 years old with valid photo ID.

Can I request hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup is available at select hotels upon request.

Are the wineries confirmed in advance?
Winery venues are subject to change based on availability.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers for a more intimate experience.

What should I wear or bring?
While the data does not specify, comfortable clothing and a valid ID are recommended for tastings.

Is this experience refundable?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but the minimum age is 21. The tour is designed for those who enjoy scenic drives, wine tasting, and learning about winemaking.